Agave americana Agave (Agavaceae) Evergreen perennial

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Agave americana
Agave
Evergreen perennial
(1 Page of 5)

The Agave americana plant species is found in Southwestern N. America. Naturalized in the Mediterranean[11]. It is a member of the Agavaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Agave.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Agave americana
Common Name:  Agave
Family:  Agavaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  Contact with the fresh sap can cause dermatitis in sensitive people[218, 238]. The plants have a very sharp and tough spine at the tip of each leaf. They need to be carefully sited in the garden.

Mature Height:  7.5   Mature Width:  2.5

Habitat:  Original habitat is unknown but it grows wild in Mexico on cultivated land and in pine woods[11].

Propagation Notes: Seed - surface sow in a light position, April in a warm greenhouse. The seed usually germinates in 1 - 3 months at 20°c[133]. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots of well-drained soil when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in a sunny position in the greenhouse until they are at least 20cm tall. Plant out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts, and give some protection from the cold for at least their first few winters[K]. Offsets can be potted up at any time they are available. Keep in a warm greenhouse until they are well established[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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